Putin's post-Soviet economic reform representative resigns and departs from Russia over the Ukraine invasion

A key representative overseeing Russia's post-Soviet economic reforms has reportedly resigned from his post due to his opposition toward the country's invasion of Ukraine, according to inside sources.

According to Reuters, Anatoly Chubais, who once worked as the chief of staff for former President Boris Yeltsin, worked for Russian President Vladimir Putin serving as his special representative for the country's connections with international organizations. Chubais received his appointment,.which was aimed at "achieving goals of sustainable development" back in 2020 shortly after his departure from RUSNANO, a Russian technology firm where he'd served as its director since 2008.

Speaking to Reuters, inside sources who spoke under the condition of anonymity, "said Chubais left due to the conflict in Ukraine." It is also being reported that "he does not intend to return to Russia."

Despite Chubais' departure and widespread opposition, Putin has described the invasion of Ukraine as a "'special military operation' that he says was necessary because NATO's enlargement threatened Russia, and to halt what he called the 'genocide' of Russian-speaking people in Ukraine since Moscow's 2014 annexation of Crimea."

Chubais' highly publicized departure comes as Putin continues his siege on Ukraine; an action that appears to be more difficult than the Russian military anticipated. Described as "one of the most prominent Russians of the chaotic immediate post-Soviet era," Chubais' resignation serves as the most notable protest among high-ranking Russian officials.